Education 2.0 Conference USA 2025 – Day 2 Recap

Day 2 of the Education 2.0 Conference USA 2025 at the Luxor Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas was packed with engaging discussions and thought-provoking sessions, just like the successful opening day. As the top education conference continued to explore groundbreaking ideas, today’s sessions focused on civic engagement, student empowerment, innovation in learning, and the evolving role of educators. The day brought together visionary educators, policymakers, and industry leaders to discuss the future of education and how institutions can adapt to an ever-changing landscape.

Shaping The Next Generation Of Engaged Citizens

The morning sessions opened with an insightful panel discussion titled “Guiding Students For The Ballot: The Role Of Schools In Nurturing Informed Voters.” Casanova Green, Owner of CGCreate, LLC, led the discussion alongside Alfred Chien, Co-founder of TUEX International Education, and Christopher R. Banks, Dean at Washington Adventist University. The panelists explored how schools can integrate civic education into curriculums to combat misinformation and political disengagement. They highlighted the importance of promoting critical thinking and media literacy to help students navigate an increasingly polarized world.

Next, the focus shifted to the evolution of child activity programs with the keynote “Navigating Tomorrow For Child Activity Providers” by Frank Sahlein, Chief Visionary Officer at 3rd Level Consulting. With over 1,500 presentations under his belt, Frank provided insights into how enrichment programs are adapting to meet the needs of today’s students. From gymnastics to after-school tutoring, he shared strategies for keeping programs relevant in an era where engagement and innovation are key to success.

The importance of emotional intelligence in education was also explored in the keynote “Why Emotional Intelligence Should Be A Priority In Education” by Dr. Thelma C. Ezeonu, CEO of Zybs Medical Group. She delved into how emotional intelligence impacts student performance, teacher effectiveness, and classroom dynamics. Her session provided actionable techniques for building emotional awareness and resilience in students and educators alike.

Uncovering Student Potential & The Power Of Literature

A critical part of education is helping students discover their strengths and passions. The panel discussion “Interpreting Academic Interests: Techniques For Uncovering Students' True Passions” brought together Tammy Zaakyaa Boxton, Owner of Zaakyaa’s Cupboard, Inc. & Healthy Halal Meals, Tim Jackson, CEO of Shad Canada, Tracy D. Dace, Founder & CEO of DREAAM, and Mike Ross, Founder & Executive Director of Future Forward Education. They discussed the role of mentorship, experiential learning, and assessment techniques in helping students identify their interests and chart meaningful academic and career paths.

In a unique and engaging session, the fireside chat “Educators’ Picks: Books That Challenge & Change Perspectives” featured Dr. Sharon Shappley, Professor at Sharon’s Classes, and Fern Chan, CEO of Fern Chan Ventures. The speakers shared book recommendations that have profoundly impacted their teaching philosophies and sparked meaningful discussions in the classroom. Educators in the audience walked away with new reading lists to enhance their curriculums and inspire their students.

Recognition, Networking, And Collaboration

The morning at the education event in Vegas wrapped up with the Recognition Session, where Stefan Wahl, Pharmacist at Vitalwelt Apotheken, honored thought leaders and institutions shaping the future of learning. This celebration was followed by a networking lunch, allowing attendees to connect with peers, explore collaborations, and discuss key takeaways from the morning’s sessions. The engaging Business Card Exchange Session further promoted valuable connections, setting the stage for impactful partnerships beyond the conference.

Empowering Marginalized Groups Through Education

After a much-needed break and networking, the afternoon resumed with a powerful keynote, “How To Support The Empowerment Of Women And Youth Through Education And Networking,” delivered by Yuri Hirayama, School Director, Principal Educator & Chief Sustainability Officer at Yuri Education Center. She emphasized how access to education and mentorship can transform lives, particularly for women and young learners from underprivileged backgrounds. Her session underscored the role of educators in promoting inclusive and supportive learning environments that break down barriers to success.

The conference then shifted its focus to neurodiversity in education with the panel “Strengthening Advocacy Efforts For Neurodiverse Students.” Brett Warner, CEO of FreshStart(s), moderated the discussion featuring Rachelle Rutherford, CEO of Kids on the Move, Daniel Pompile, VP, Expansion at CHP Charter Schools, Tandria Callins, CEO & Principal at Language & Literacy Academy For Learning, Inc.,Dr. Mary Joy McConner, Founder & CEO of Inclusive Excellence Consulting, and Susan Kruger Winter, CEO & Co-founder of SOAR Learning, Inc. The session examined ways schools can better accommodate neurodiverse students, advocating for more personalized learning approaches and institutional support.

Joy In Learning And Leadership Through Literature

Learning is a lifelong journey, and the next session at the top education conference explored how to make education fulfilling for all ages. The panel “Rediscovering Wonder: Cultivating Joy In Adult Learning” was moderated by Hannah Peaslee, Co-founder & COO of High Net Worth Women Institut, and featured Ron Franklin, Adjunct Professor of Music at San Diego College Of Continuing Education, and Anna M. Weselak, Owner of Weselak & Associates. The discussion emphasized the importance of curiosity-driven learning and how adult education programs can be structured to promote engagement, creativity, and career advancement.

The role of literature in leadership development took center stage in the next fireside chat, “Stories That Shape Us: Using Literature To Build The Next Generation Of Leaders.” Taylor A. Mason, CEO & Founder of Edify Consulting, and Dr. Doug Luffborough III, President & CEO of Higher Level Leadership, examined how storytelling can instill leadership qualities in students. Their discussion underscored how diverse narratives can promote empathy, resilience, and critical thinking—essential qualities in today’s fast-changing world.

Developing High-Potential Talent And Looking Ahead

The final session of the day was the panel “How Do You Develop High-Potential Talent?” Dr. Feyi Obamehinti, President of Ravir LLC, led a discussion with David Barron, Vice President of Enrollment Management at The University Of Texas At Tyler, Dr. Janet Patti, CEO of Star Factor Coaching & Leadership For A Better World, Lisa Polk, Founder & CEO of Pollyanna’s Place, Inc., and Greg Hitchcock, Founder of Pegasus Digital Media. The panel focused on strategies for identifying and nurturing top talent, the role of mentorship, and how educators can create opportunities that empower students to reach their fullest potential.

Looking Forward To Day 3

With two days of insightful discussions, inspiring keynotes, and valuable networking behind them, attendees eagerly anticipate the final day of the Education 2.0 Conference USA 2025. As the focus shifts to the future of digital learning, personal development, and global education trends, among others, the conversations from Day 2 will undoubtedly influence the next generation of education leaders and pave the way for a fantastic finale of this top education conference’s 2025 edition in the USA with more exciting editions to roll out later in the year and in 2026 in Dubai and the USA!